“Every year, we see more and more evidence about the dangers of concussions and the serious health problems they can cause,” Senator Bucco said. “Professional sports leagues have started taking them more seriously, but youth sports — where concussions can cause even more damage — still lag behind. Spreading knowledge about concussions can go a long way in preventing lifelong brain injuries.”

A child with a concussion is susceptible more injuries and permanent damage. This will help raise awareness in #NJ. https://t.co/yHwwtiq91o

The resolution, SJR-81, designated the third Friday in September of every year as Concussion Awareness Day.

Children and teenagers are more likely to get a concussion and generally have a longer recovery time than adults. Of the 300,000 concussions diagnosed each year, more than 62,000 are sustained in high school sports, according to data provided by the federal Centers for Disease Control.

“If a child with a concussion doesn’t have it properly diagnosed and given a chance to rest, it could leave them susceptible to additional concussions, as well as permanent brain damage,” Senator Bucco said. “Despite this danger, concussion symptoms are often ignored, especially during sports. We can’t allow competitiveness get in the way of a child’s healthy future.”